How to Apply & Remove
Follow our step-by-step guide to prepare, apply and remove your press-on nails with care.
How to Apply Press-On Nails
Proper preparation helps create a cleaner fit and gives your adhesive the best surface to bond to.
Prepare your kit before you start
Preparation
Prepare your natural nails before using either application method.
Push Back Your Cuticles
Gently push your cuticles back using a cuticle pusher. This creates a clean surface for the press-on nails to stick.
File Your Natural Nails
If necessary, lightly file your natural nails to create a neat shape.
Buff Your Natural Nails
Gently buff the surface of your nails. The goal is to remove surface shine, not to aggressively file your natural nails.
Clean Your Nails Thoroughly
Use an alcohol wipe or rubbing alcohol to clean each nail. Make sure your nails are clean, completely dry and free from oil or lotion.
Choose Your Press-On Nails
Choose your press-on set and match the nails to the correct fingers before applying adhesive.
Choose Your Application Method
Use adhesive tabs for short-term wear or nail glue when you want a longer-lasting application.
Adhesive Tabs
Sticky tabs are ideal for a quick, easy, temporary manicure and can last around 1–3 days.
Choose the Right Adhesive Tab
Select a tab that is slightly smaller than your natural nail. It should not extend onto the surrounding skin.
Apply the Adhesive Tab
Place the tab onto your natural nail, press it down and peel away the protective film. Avoid touching the exposed adhesive.
Apply the Press-On Nail
Apply the press-on nail at a 45° angle, then press firmly for around 15 seconds.
Nail Glue
Nail glue is a longer-wear option and can last up to 1–2 weeks.
Apply a Small Amount of Glue
Apply a pea-sized amount of glue to the back of the press-on nail. Too much glue may squeeze out onto the surrounding skin.
Apply the Press-On Nail
Apply the press-on nail at a 45° angle and press firmly for around 30 seconds. Avoid moving the nail while the adhesive sets.
For the best results after application
- Avoid soaking your hands immediately after application.
- Avoid hot water right away.
- Do not use your nails as tools.
- Be gentle with activities that put pressure on your nails.
The more carefully you treat your manicure during the first few hours, the better your overall wear can be.
How to Remove Press-On Nails Safely
Give the adhesive enough time to soften before gently loosening each press-on nail.
Prepare a gentle removal soak
Removal Steps
Work slowly and stop if the press-on still feels firmly attached.
Prepare a Bowl
Fill a small bowl with warm water and add a small amount of mild soap and olive oil.
The warm, soapy mixture helps soften the adhesive and makes the press-ons easier to loosen.
Soak Your Nails
If the nails still feel firmly attached, soak them a little longer rather than trying to pull them off.
Gently Loosen the Press-On
Once the adhesive has softened, gently work a wooden cuticle stick underneath the edge of the press-on, starting from a side that has already begun to loosen.
If you feel resistance, stop and soak your nails for several more minutes.
Avoid these common removal mistakes
Don't rip the nails off
Pulling off a firmly attached press-on can take layers of your natural nail with it.
Don't force a cuticle stick underneath
If there is resistance, the adhesive has not loosened enough yet.
Don't aggressively scrape your natural nails
Your natural nail is more delicate than the press-on.
Don't peel off remaining glue
Let the remaining adhesive soften instead.
Don't rush the process
A few extra minutes of soaking is better than forcing a stubborn nail.
Keep your press-ons looking their best
Learn how to care for, store and reuse your press-on nail sets.